Criminal Attorney: Business Stuff | Episode 3 Summary

Release Date: September 30, 2024
Host: Brandon Jenks Jenkins
Produced by: Matthew Nelson, Chris Segal, Stephanie Joaquin, and team

Introduction to New York Confidential

The episode opens with a vivid depiction of New York Confidential, an exclusive and illicit escort service operating out of a luxurious Manhattan loft at 79 Worth Street. The setting is lushly described, emphasizing its Moroccan kasbah-inspired decor with 18-foot ceilings, plush sofas, and an opulent crystal chandelier. This backdrop sets the stage for the high-stakes interactions and power plays that unfold within.

Ron Sperling's Reality Show Ambitions

In 2004, Ron Sperling, an experienced TV and film producer, seeks to create a reality show exploring the inner workings of New York Confidential. He orchestrates a meeting with Jason Itzler, the flamboyant owner of the escort service, and Natalia, the star escort and Jason's girlfriend.

Jason Itzler (00:49): "And I go, look, we have some points we need to cover. First of all, you know, I gotta get everybody in here to sign off."

Ron aims for an intimate portrayal, avoiding sensationalism. However, Jason pushes for a more unrestrained approach, wanting complete access without release forms, thereby risking the show's integrity.

Jason Itzler (03:06): "When Paul heard my plan, he was like, okay, Jason, if you want to do this... not Jason's version. This is fucking nuts."

Paul Bergrin's Dominance and Influence

Paul Bergrin, Jason's lawyer and an integral figure behind New York Confidential, is introduced as a formidable presence. Initially passive, Paul asserts his authority, making it clear that his approval is paramount.

Jason Itzler (03:32): "Paul was a scary dude... if Paul asked you to do something, it wasn't a request. It was an order."

Paul ensures the operation maintains a veneer of organization and discretion, contrasting Jason's flamboyant persona. He manipulates scenarios to protect himself, avoiding direct involvement even as he oversees the escort service's intricate activities.

The Dual Nature of New York Confidential

As Ron delves deeper into filming, he uncovers the dual facets of New York Confidential. On one hand, Jason is the charismatic frontman, engaging in showmanship and attracting high-profile clients. On the other, Paul maintains strict control behind the scenes, ensuring the operation runs smoothly and discreetly.

Jason Itzler (05:56): "This is like, oh, let's order some room service. Sure, you want to have champagne? They'll make out with you. They'll just cuddle..."

Despite the outward chaos, Paul enforces strict boundaries, such as limiting on-site activities and ensuring escorts meet clients offloft, thereby minimizing risks and maintaining operational secrecy.

The FBI's Investigation and Shawn Brokos's Struggles

Parallel to the unfolding drama at New York Confidential, FBI Agent Shawn Brokos grapples with personal and professional challenges. Her informant, Kimo McCrae, betrays her trust, leading to the wrongful arrest and eventual murder of associates due to fabricated conspiracies.

Shawn Brokos (13:37): "I think he was torn between leaving his family and everything he knew and starting over."

Kimo's deceit not only jeopardizes ongoing investigations but also deeply affects Shawn, forcing her to confront the harsh realities of her role and the limitations of her influence.

Paul Bergrin's High-Profile Case

The episode also highlights Paul's aggressive legal strategies through his defense of Sergeant Javal Davis, a soldier accused of war crimes at the Abu Ghraib prison. Paul's approach is unapologetically confrontational, aiming to expose higher-level government culpability rather than solely defending his client.

Paul Bergrin (27:13): "He would start off every single time with it is my honor and privilege, he would say, booming voice to defend Javal Davis."

Despite Paul's efforts to shift blame upwards within the military hierarchy and his relentless media presence, Javal faces significant consequences, receiving a six-month sentence and a bad conduct discharge. Paul's tactics, while bold, ultimately do not achieve the complete vindication he sought.

Intersecting Paths and Rising Tensions

As Paul continues to ascend in his legal endeavors, representing powerful criminals and taking on formidable cases, Shawn remains mired in the aftermath of Kimo's betrayal and subsequent death. The episode builds tension between these parallel narratives, hinting at future confrontations and deeper investigations into both Paul’s and Shawn’s struggles.

Cliffhanger: A New Lead

The episode concludes with Shawn receiving a potentially pivotal lead regarding Kimo's murder. A mysterious caller claims to know the perpetrator and the location, but also mentions being in danger, setting the stage for the next installment.

Shawn Brokos (32:07): "He goes, I know who did it. I know where it happened. I need to talk to you about it, but I am in danger."

Key Takeaways

• Power Dynamics: The intricate power plays between Jason Itzler and Paul Bergrin reveal the complex hierarchy within New York Confidential.

• Ethical Dilemmas: Shawn Brokos's internal conflict showcases the moral and emotional toll law enforcement officers endure when dealing with compromised informants.

• Legal Aggression: Paul Bergrin's tenacious legal defense strategies illustrate his willingness to challenge authority and push legal boundaries.

• Interconnected Stories: The episode effectively weaves together multiple storylines, setting up future developments and deepening the overarching narrative.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jason Itzler (00:49): "And I go, look, we have some points we need to cover. First of all, you know, I gotta get everybody in here to sign off."
• Jason Itzler (03:06): "When Paul heard my plan, he was like, okay, Jason, if you want to do this... not Jason's version. This is fucking nuts."
• Jason Itzler (05:56): "This is like, oh, let's order some room service. Sure, you want to have champagne? They'll make out with you. They'll just cuddle..."
• Shawn Brokos (13:37): "I think he was torn between leaving his family and everything he knew and starting over."
• Paul Bergrin (27:13): "He would start off every single time with it is my honor and privilege, he would say, booming voice to defend Javal Davis."
• Shawn Brokos (32:07): "He goes, I know who did it. I know where it happened. I need to talk to you about it, but I am in danger."

Looking Ahead

As the episode wraps up, listeners are left anticipating the revelations that Shawn will uncover regarding Kimo's murder and how these developments will intertwine with Paul's rising influence and the ongoing operations at New York Confidential. The next episode promises deeper insights into these conflicts and the characters’ evolving strategies to navigate their perilous environments.

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